Was the law given only to Israel or to the whole human race?
The law was given to Israel, absolutely, but it was also for the whole human race. Yet it was not given so that all the world might become saved; the law does not provide salvation. Its purpose extends beyond Israel, but not to save everyone.
Les explains that as we go into the next chapter 20, Israel is going to receive the law. He directs listeners to Romans 3:20-21 for further study. He affirms that the law was given to Israel, absolutely it was, but it was also for the whole human race—yet not so that all the world might become saved. The law serves a different purpose than salvation. This comes in the context of Israel's dispersion and return, and God's covenant promises to His people.
Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
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